What steps to doctors take when antibiotics dont work?

There can be several reasons why an antibiotic doesn't work. If it is overused, it becomes ineffective as the cells that attack a virus do not recognize it as a virus or infection anymore. Many also start feeling better and don't take the whole prescription and they need to. Some infections reoccur if the immune system cannot fight it off. Your general health does play a part in getting well. A good blood workup is in order to see what is going on. You may need something like B12 shots to boost your immune system. Many doctors don't take the proper blood tests or even swab the throat and hand out an antibiotic that doesn't work. An anti-infective might be in order. Green is definitely infection and can spread to other parts of the body if not controlled. Go back to your doctor, write down all the questions you have and see what happens. If you are a smoker or have allergies, this will also affect you too. Get a second opinion if you get no help. Bladder infections are usually prevented by drinking plenty of water and cranberry juice. You need much more testing to see what is really going on with your macrophages, T-cells and helper cells that are meant to attack viruses or infections. Good luck and hope you feel better soon with help.